ALMAS Hosts Naperville’s Third Annual Día de Muertos: Celebrating Community and Life

ALMAS - Alliance of Latinos Motivating Action in the Suburbs invites the community to Naperville’s Third Annual Día de Muertos: Celebrating Community and Life on Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Riverwalk Grand Pavilion.

This free, family-friendly festival unites culture, art, and remembrance in one of Naperville’s most vibrant fall traditions. Rooted in Mexican and Latin American heritage, Día de Muertos honors loved ones who have passed through music, color, and joy. We warmly welcome all residents, regardless of race, ethnicity, language, religion, or age, to experience this celebration of unity and memory.

In times when some may feel uncertain or hesitant to gather, ALMAS extends an open invitation of care and connection. Traditions like Día de Muertos remind us in challenging moments, cultural pride can offer comfort, hope, and a deep sense of belonging. For those who prefer to participate from home, opportunities are available to share digital dedications and photos of loved ones.

Guests attending in person are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy an afternoon filled with live performances, art, and delicious food. From traditional Indigenous ceremonies and dances of Mexico to folkloric Mexican dance, mariachi, children’s storytelling, and hands-on cultural workshops, this event brings Naperville’s diverse community together in a spirit of joy and reflection. This year’s event features expanded performances, artisan vendors, and community partners—all honoring loved ones and celebrating the joy of life.

All are invited to honor loved ones by creating a personal ofrenda through reserving a mock tomb, or by adding tributes to the Community Altar, the Reflections of Life memorial, and the Monarch Remembrance Tree. Community members are invited to participate in these offerings and/or volunteer at the event. Sign up at https://www.facebook.com/share....

Highlights include:

• Catrinas, Calaveras & Alebrijes Exhibit – Art and symbolism come alive in colorful displays.
• Panteón & Ofrendas Display – Community altar honoring loved ones, mock graves with ofrendas
• Children’s Tent & Workshops – Papel picado, marigold flowers, skull masks, monarch butterflies, and more.
• Mercadito (2–7 PM) – Food, artisan goods, and cultural treasures.
• Catrinas and Catrines contest
• League of Women Voters – Onsite voter registration (bring two forms of ID, including one with a current Illinois address).

About ALMAS: Alliance of Latinos Motivating Action in the Suburbs (ALMAS) is Naperville’s first Latino-led and Latino-serving nonprofit organization, dedicated to celebrating Latino cultures, fostering community, and empowering individuals across the western suburbs. Learn more at www.ALMAScommunity.org or follow @ALMAScommunity on social media.

Media Contact: Elizabeth Navarro at Partnerships@almascommunity.org